The Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) has declined across its entire range due largely to loss of breeding habitat and overharvest, with much of it as illegal harvesting for caviar. Although conservation efforts have stabilized this species in the Central Mississippi States, a continued decline is expected due to overharvest, introduced species (particularly Asian Carp), and pollution. Other threats include channelization and dam construction that have blocked seasonal migration to suitable spawning sites which isolates individual populations and lead to breeding issues. Some characteristics of its life history, such as length of time to reach sexual maturity, make it susceptible to decline and slow to recover.
